EDITORIAL: Speak out for victims of abuse

How you can help save others from domestic violence

This week, The Leaf-Chronicle presented the special report "Domestic Abuse: Speaking Out," in which victims and survivors of violence shared their stories.

Now, what can we as a community do to prevent it from happening, to stop the abusers, to help those trapped in abusive relationships?

There's no silver bullet, but here are some steps that can help:

? Support law enforcement. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office operated a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit from 2003 to 2007, but because of budget constraints, the unit had to be broken up. In 2009, the Clarksville Police Department used a grant to hire four victim's advocates and assigned six detectives to the Domestic Violence Division and Child Physical and Sexual Abuse Division.

Those who say police should "do something" about domestic violence need to understand that to "do something" takes manpower, and manpower takes funding.

? Open your ears. Victims spoke of neighbors who ignored their screams. If you can hear violence taking place, call 911. Let the professionals decide if someone needs help - you should err on the side of protection. It's much better to see the flashing lights of a police cruiser than the flashing lights of an ambulance.

? Spread the word. Talk to your friends about these stories. Some women talked of appearing to be a happy family - you never know what conversation might be sparked by discussing abuse. It's a conversation that could save a friend's life.

? Talk to your sons. Young men should grow up knowing it's never OK to hit a woman, and they should hear that from their fathers and uncles. Violence against your wife defies the most basic family values - don't let your sons grow up thinking it's OK.

? Talk to your daughters. Help them see the signs of an abuser before the abuse starts (you can find those at www.thehotline.org). And make them understand that if he hits you once, he'll do it again. Remember that abused women often hide it from family. If your daughter suddenly speaks out, give her your support.

? Support Safehouse. Old cell phones can be donated to call 911 at any time. And Safehouse is always in need of monetary and supply donations. Call 648-9100.

? Stand with them Saturday. This weekend is "Remember My Name," a domestic violence awareness event hosted by the Sheriff's Office and Daymar Institute. A silent auction will benefit Safehouse, and exhibits include the Clothesline Project, Dreams to Screams and the Silent Witness Project. The free event will be 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Kenwood High School, 251 E. Pine Mountain Road.

Come out and show your support for these families. If there is strength in numbers, your number is what counts.

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EDITORIAL: Speak out for victims of abuse

This week, The Leaf-Chronicle presented the special report 'Domestic Abuse: Speaking Out,' in which victims and survivors of violence shared their stories.

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